What documents do I need to ship cargo to Ghana?

For Ghana you'll need a commercial invoice with HS codes, a packing list, and depending on the goods, a Certificate of Origin and conformity or tracking certificates. We handle your UK customs export entry and advise you on the rest.

Ghana Customs Requirements for UK Cargo

Q: Who pays customs duties in Ghana?

Duties, taxes and local charges in Ghana are assessed locally and are the responsibility of the importer or consignee, not included in the freight cost.

Ghana is a major West African gateway. Its import documentation is straightforward for personal effects but more involved for commercial cargo.

Who handles customs

We handle your UK customs export entry — the declaration that lets your shipment leave the UK. As the shipper, you are responsible for ensuring the correct export documentation is in place. In Ghana, import clearance is handled by the importer or their appointed clearing agent, and duties and taxes are paid locally.

Documents and requirements for Ghana

CTN / ECTN — Ghana is introducing a mandatory cargo tracking note (CTN/ECTN/SPN) for shipments. As requirements and start dates have shifted, always confirm the current position before you ship.
Commercial invoice & HS codes — On company letterhead, describing each item, value and HS commodity code.
Packing list — Itemising contents, weights and dimensions.
Certificate of Origin — From your local UK Chamber of Commerce, where required.
Import Declaration Form — Commercial imports are processed through Ghana’s ICUMS system by the importer.

Duties and taxes are assessed locally and are the responsibility of the importer/consignee. Customs requirements change from time to time and depend on what you’re shipping — always confirm the current rules before you ship. We’ll advise you on your specific shipment.

Shipping cargo to Ghana?

We’ll guide you through the paperwork and handle your UK customs export entry.

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See also our full customs guide and our air cargo to Ghana service.